Coveting.

Covet: to wish for earnestly; to desire (what belongs to another) inordinately

The tenth commandment is "Thou shalt not covet..." and then it goes on to list a couple things we should't covet, including: my neighbor's house, and his wife, his servants, his ox, his ass, or anything - for that matter- that is his.

That said: I covet.

There are things I don't have that I desperate want.

Some of the pretty little things I am currently craving:

Coveting this? Spiked Lily Necklace, Bauble Bar, $44

Coveting this? Candela Starlight Maxi, Free People, $550

Coveting this? Cedar Street Maise, Kate Spade, $298

Coveting this? Honeydew Intimates Camilla Lace Bralette, Nasty Gal, $28

Is there anything you're currently coveting? Do share!

Oops.. I did it again!

That time I said I wouldn't leave you guys hanging for months at a time.....  oops.

Here's the truth: I didn't hold up my end of the bargain. I am not putting aside time for my blog like I used to, and it has to change. I don't work at a desk anymore.. and my hours are different every week, so it makes it hard for me to set aside the time to sit down and write. But the truth is... I miss it! I miss writing, I miss researching new fashion trends, and mostly, I miss you.

Here's my pledge (again): This time, for real, it's on. You'll be seeing a lot more of me. If I start to slip, I challenge you to hold me to this pledge. Get after me! Remind me you're here and I should be too. Thanks in advance for your constant support and gentle pushes :)

Since the last time we chatted on July 4th weekend, so much fashion has happened! I went on a family vacation to the Dominican Republic (first time there-- gorgeous!) and work has been busier than ever. The social scene hasn't changed too dramatically. I'm still taking it one day at a time, and seeing where fate leads me. So far, it's led me to the fridge and a couple extra lbs. I've developed a little bit of a snacking habit, so hopefully redirecting my attention to the blog versus my boredom hunger will help reverse the curse.

Let me catch you up on some of the fashion you've missed.

Bottom line: this girl is back! It feels good to be blogging again. See you soon.

Event Recap: Danielle Nicole Collection!

Happy Monday, everyone!

A few weeks ago I invited you to an event here in Baltimore to preview designer Danielle Nicole's new collection of handbags. I was able to stop by her pop-up shop event, and try on some of her new bags. I have to say... although I'm not much of a handbag gal, I loved her designs! I could see myself wearing several different styles of her bags, mainly the cross-body style, and the new 'Diane' handbag.

Here's a little snapshot with the designer herself, showing off my new Davina Mini Crossbody:

If you're in need of a new handbag, I highly recommend checking out Danielle's website. 

Or... if you need a belated Mother's Day Gift, these purses would be perfect!

Until next time,

GJU

Pssst.. Local Event Exclusive Invitation!

I know not all of my readers are in the Baltimore area, but for those of you who are... I have an exclusive invitation for you!

Designer Danielle Nicole, originally from Ellicott City, MD, will be in town on Thursday, May 9 to introduce her latest line of handbags. Danielle's bags are sold at Nordstrom, Macy's, Lord & Taylor... as well boutiques in states across the U.S. Here in Baltimore you can find her collection at Sassanova in Harbor East.

On Thursday, May 9, from 4-8pm at About Faces in Kenilworth, join Danielle Nicole for a meet & greet to preview her new line of handbags, The Diane Collection, while enjoying complimentary wine, light fare, and door prizes.

Quick recap: Is there anything better than handbags, wine, food, all at the same time? I don't think so. 

Also, if you're still in search of a great Mother's Day gift, Danielle Nicole bags are the perfect present!

Want to see more of the Danielle Nicole Collection before coming out on the 9th (and maybe do a little online shopping)? Here's her website. My favorite is the Bella Crossbody in Mustard.

The full event info is below. Hope you can make it!

J. Crew Spring 2013 Look Book

You all know my obsession with J. Crew runs deep through my veins. As expected, their Spring 2013 collection is incredible.

Lots of bold prints and mixed patterns. Lots of mixing casual pieces with more formal work attire. Colorful pumps and clutches finish each look, and as always in J. Crew fashion, a simple coral lip.

I pulled a couple samples from the look book to share with you for today's post.

Would love to hear your thoughts!

*images from J. Crew Spring 2013 Collection Look Book

Abby Talks Accessories: Updated Fall Pieces

My go-to accessory guru is back with a guest post this morning! See Abby's favorite fall picks...

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Growing up, my favorite part of August was back to school shopping. We would spend all day at the mall picking out new shoes, clothes, backpacks and supplies (I don’t know about you, but picking out trappers and folders was top five.) It’s been a long time since I’ve been in school; however, August is the perfect time for an updated fall work wardrobe. While that idea can sound like a bank-breaker, there are five every day accessories (that were probably even on your back to school list!) that can boldly and noticeably update your wardrobe just in time for the fall season.  

The watch: Chunky women’s watches are still a major trend. I have a hard time venturing out from my favorite Michael Kors oversized gold watch, but this Michelle is classic.   

The eyewear: An easy way to update your look is to also update the frames. You all know I love my shades, but if you sit in front of a computer as often as I do, you know how important a good pair of prescription glasses is, too. Warby Parker offers stylish and sophisticated frames that fit any prescription for $95 and for every pair purchased, they give a pair to someone in need. You can order three pair of frames to try on before selecting your final pair. Awesome concept, easy accessory upgrade. Win, win.

The bag: Much like a backpack, handbags can become worn through daily wear and tear. Plus, buying a new handbag makes any girl happy. My dream of all dream bags is a Birkin (photo below), but I haven’t been able to justify that purchase yet. Michael Kors Hamilton bag is a great go-to and available in many colors. I have the black and brown and they’re multifunctional, easy to carry and fun to look at. I’m also a big fan of the 2012 Fall line from Tory Burch this year.

The scarf: The fall is the best time to rock a scarf, and there are so many options. Whether you buy from a street vendor in New York City or a luxury designer, scarves can add color and intrigue to any outfit. I’m digging the current options from the Gap this fall.

The shoes: Black stilettos are a must for any girl, but they’ve got to be comfortable. I have found Guess, Jessica Simpson and Nine West to have the most comfortable pumps for day-to-day wear.  

To make it even more fun, grab a group of girlfriends, or a fun shopping buddy and head out for a day of “fall wardrobe upgrading” one weekend this August. Tweet me your buys @AbbyDraper

Casual Layers

Wait.. you don't have photo sessions in parking lots? Weird.

Make it your own:

Jeans: J. Crew Factory $69.50

Pink Shirt: Ralph Lauren Polo $89.50

Jacket: LOFT, Similar style $44.99

Scarf: Target, Similar style $14.99

Sandals: Jack Rogers $105

Bag: Longchamp $145